As winter approaches, the dropping temperatures can take a toll on your HVAC and plumbing systems. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to keep your family warm or a business owner ensuring your operations run smoothly, taking the time to winterize these systems can save you from costly repairs, improve energy efficiency, and keep your property safe and comfortable. At Griffith Plumbing Services (GPS), we want to help you avoid unnecessary stress and expenses by walking you through these essential steps—and showing you how we can lend a hand when needed.
Start with Your HVAC System
Your HVAC system is like the heart of your home or business in the winter—it keeps everything running and everyone warm. Properly maintaining this system isn’t difficult, but it can require some intention each year to remember, so consider adding reminders to your phone or calendar to do the following:
- Change the air filter every 1-3 months to keep airflow efficient and reduce energy bills.
- Schedule a professional furnace inspection to catch potential problems early and ensure safe operation.
- Test your thermostat to confirm it’s working correctly. Upgrade to a smart thermostat for energy savings and convenience.
- Clear vents and registers of furniture, curtains, and other obstructions to promote even heating throughout your space.
By taking these simple steps, you’ll not only stay warm but also save money by ensuring your HVAC system runs efficiently.
Plumbing Prep for Winter
Frozen pipes are one of the most common winter disasters as it can lead to flooding and extensive water damage to walls, floors, and belongings, but they’re entirely preventable with a little effort. Start by wrapping pipes in unheated spaces—like garages, basements, or crawl spaces—with foam insulation or heat tape. This simple step can save you a lot time, money, and energy in the long-run.
Even small leaks can cause big headaches in freezing weather. Before winter sets in, inspect all visible pipes, faucets, and joints for drips or damp spots. If you notice anything, call GPS right away—we can inspect and fix the issue before temperatures plummet. Along with checking for leaks, another often overlooked task is disconnecting garden hoses and draining outdoor spigots. It’s a quick job, but it prevents ice from forming in your lines and damaging your plumbing from the expansion of remaining water.
Lastly, your water heater also deserves a winter check-up. Consider flushing out sediment which can help your water heaters to heat water more efficiently, reducing energy costs. Also, setting the thermostat to 120°F provides hot water that’s safe, comfortable, and cost-effective. If you’re unsure how to do these tasks yourself, GPS is here to help.
Other Winter Safety Tips
Everything we’ve covered so far will help keep your HVAC and plumbing systems in top shape to perform well all winter long, but there are a few other items we’d like to remind you of this season as well. Safety is as important as comfort in the colder months. Be sure to:
- Replace batteries in your carbon monoxide detectors to ensure safety while your furnace works overtime.
- Keep exterior furnace and dryer vents clear of snow, ice, and debris to prevent dangerous blockages.
- During extreme cold, let faucets drip slightly and open under-sink cabinet doors to allow warm air to access plumbing and prevent frozen pipes.
Why Choose Griffith Plumbing Services?
At GPS, we treat every customer like family. We understand how overwhelming winter prep can feel, but you don’t have to do it alone. From HVAC tune-ups to plumbing inspections, our team is here to take the burden off your shoulders. The team at GPS knows the ins and outs of winter maintenance and pride ourselves on delivering reliable, friendly service that keeps your home or business running smoothly.
Beyond just repairs, we believe in proactive care. Catching issues before they escalate saves you time, money, and the inconvenience of emergency calls. When you work with GPS, you can trust that your comfort and safety are our top priorities.
Contact Us Today
Don’t wait for winter storms to highlight what’s unprepared—take action now and enjoy peace of mind all season. Call Griffith Plumbing Services today to schedule your HVAC and plumbing winterization. Together, we’ll ensure your systems are ready to tackle the cold, so you can focus on what matters most.